Books

Average customer rating:

Well written..
Very predictable - saw the ending a mile away. . .
Commercial Pandering
Accessible novel about friendship and love first, and knitting second.
WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?

The Friday Night Knitting Club
Kate Jacobs
Manufacturer: Putnam Adult
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Family Tree

ASIN: 0399154094
Release Date: 2007-01-18

Book Description

A charming and moving novel about female friendship and the experiences that knit us together-even when we least expect it.

Walker and Daughter is Georgia Walker's little yarn shop, tucked into a quiet storefront on Manhattan's Upper West Side. The Friday Night Knitting Club was started by some of Georgia's regulars, who gather once a week to work on their latest projects and to chat-and occasionally clash-over their stories of love, life, and everything in between.

Georgia has her hands full, juggling the demands of running the store and raising her spunky teen daughter, Dakota, by herself. Thank goodness for Anita, her mentor and dear friend, and the rest of the members of the knitting club-who are just as varied as the skeins of yarn in the shop's bins. There's Peri, a prelaw student turned handbag designer; Darwin, a somewhat aloof feminist grad student; and Lucie, a petite, quiet woman who's harboring some secrets of her own.

However, unexpected changes soon throw these women's lives into disarray, and the shop's comfortable world gets shaken up like a snow globe. James, Georgia's ex, decides that he wants to play a larger role in Dakota's life-and possibly Georgia's as well. Cat, a former friend from high school, returns to New York as a rich Park Avenue wife and uneasily renews her old bond with Georgia. Meanwhile, Anita must confront her growing (and reciprocated) feelings for Marty, the kind neighborhood deli owner. And when the unthinkable happens, they realize what they've created: not just a knitting club, but a sisterhood

Customer Reviews:

Well written.........2007-06-25

would have liked a bit deeper into the women of our story though. I am a lover of cross stitch so this book kept my interests. Knowing nothing of knitting, I still loved this book. I felt like we were just touching the tip of the iceberg on these women. I rarely felt the real bond with them though.

I would read another book by Ms. Jacobs though. I applaud her talent.

Very predictable - saw the ending a mile away. . ........2007-06-25

I got suckered in to reading this book for two reasons: 1) it's ostensibly about knitting. 2) Julia Roberts has signed on to be the main character for an upcoming movie.

(I'm a sucker for all things Julia. It's absolutely unreasonable and I have no idea why.)

The character development is just awful. You know the type of book where each character is a specific stereotype, but the story line is that they really aren't that stereotype? Predictable, predictable, - ugh, did I say predicable?

I hate predictable books. I find them a huge waste of time. But if I start a book, I tend to finish them because I like to give the author the benefit of the doubt.

Well, folks, FNKC is a big huge waste of time. Wait for the movie because you won't miss a thing.

(My apologies to the author - I know it's hard to see bad reviews)

Warning: Spoilers.

Stuff I wish the author expounded on or hated that she went in the direction that she did.

The main character goes to Ireland to visit her grandmother. There's a yarn shop there. Do we get to go and meet the Irish knitting folks? Nope. There's just a mention about the shop and you keep thinking that you're going to get to visit. But nope. The author decided to focus more on the racial differences between the main character and her daughter than with the wonderful world of knitting.

The dresses that the main character makes for her former best friend was supposed to elevate her to becoming a fabulous couture designer. Did it? Nope.

Commercial Pandering.......2007-06-14

I really thought I'd like this book after reading the first 9 pages. It seemed to flow well and it seemed as if the ad hoc knitting group might be a nice throwback to a time of 'sewing circles' or even to the very well done Joy Luck Club. But by page 10 we were blessed with the totally unnecessary and obligatory 'F' word and I knew this book wasn't what I thought it would be.

I am being treated for cancer and my friend has been knitting me these amazing hats made out of all textures and colors of wool and even bamboo. Each cap is a work of art embellished with fun fur, pins, buttons, etc., and before I put one on, I can't help but hold it in my hands and marvel at the love and skill she put into it. This is why I think I was so drawn to read this book and within the first pages, one of the characters actually said, "She is an artist whose medium is wool". I felt so let down that this was nothing more than brain dump - there was no love or bond between these woman in these pages - it was all so superficial. What a waste of a potentially deep and moving story line.

Instead, it was just another feisty Mom with her feisty illegitimate daughter juggling a million things. So commercial - I agree with one reader who said that it seemed to be written as a screenplay and I believe I read that Julia Roberts did indeed purchase the film rights.

So many books to read, so little time, so much hype out there. I wish I could gather all the other 1* reviewers for a Friday Night Writing Club so we could pump out a good, clean, life-changing read.

Accessible novel about friendship and love first, and knitting second........2007-05-30

Georgia Walker is a survivor. Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, Georgia relocated to New York City after college to start a career in publishing. There she finds career success, friendship and even love. But when an unexpected pregnancy enters the picture, Georgia's boyfriend turns tail and runs, leaving her to raise their daughter alone. Georgia doesn't give up and head back to her parents, though; instead, on the advice of a nurturing acquaintance, Anita, Georgia takes her talent and passion for knitting and turns it into a career. She starts by knitting projects on commission and eventually raises enough money to start her own yarn shop.

Fast forward to the present. Georgia and her preteen daughter, Dakota, live upstairs from their popular knitting store, Walker and Daughter. Business is good thanks to some recent publicity, and Georgia is content, even if she admits that she's sometimes lonely. In the course of a few short months, though, Georgia's world is about to turn upside down.

First, Dakota's father James, who has been living and working abroad, returns to New York, wanting to get involved in his daughter's life for the first time. Georgia resists at first, but soon acknowledges the positive effect James's presence has on Dakota's life. James, who is African American, offers Dakota not only expensive gifts but also a connection to a part of her heritage that Georgia just can't provide. But what can she do when James seems to want to rekindle his relationship with Georgia, too? Can she forgive his betrayals and long absence?

Second, Cat, a high school friend of Georgia's who is now a primped and toned trophy wife in Manhattan, contacts Georgia to knit a very special evening gown for a very spicy commission. Can Georgia overcome her bitterness following Cat's betrayal from decades before, and even find room for renewed friendship with her somewhat self-centered former friend?

Finally, Georgia, who has always resisted close friendships, finds herself drawn into the lives of the knitters who comprise Walker and Daughter's newly formed Friday Night Knitting Club. At first, Georgia simply hangs around the margins of the group, but almost before she knows it, she grows to regard these very different women as true friends --- friends who will be there to support her when she needs it most.

Debut novelist Kate Jacobs, who has had a long career in women's magazine publishing, certainly taps into the Zeitgeist with this accessible novel about friendship and love first, and knitting second.

Hardcore knitting enthusiasts might scorn the numerous mistakes that litter Jacobs's interludes about knitting techniques. But that's not really the point here; as one club member points out, knitting group is often really more about conversation and friendship than it is about the knitting. That's kind of how the novel is, too. Readers who enjoy stories about the complexities of women's lives, and the structure and resilience of women's friendships, will enjoy what they find here.

Georgia's character is particularly well developed; she is by no means perfect, and many female readers will identify with her romantic dilemmas, her self-doubts about parenting, and her ambivalent attitude toward her sometimes obnoxious old friend, Cat. However, her survival instincts and genuine compassion make her an inspiring, winning character. It's no wonder that real-life knitter Julia Roberts will be producing and starring in a film adaptation of THE FRIDAY NIGHT KNITTING CLUB, set for release in 2008.

--- Reviewed by Norah Piehl

WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?.......2007-05-27

I got this book because everyone was talking about it. Big Mistake! Not to mention it droned on and on about who knows what and frankly, who cared? My major complaint is why can't we have more books that, after you are done reading, you feel good? What is wrong with people who deem a "MUST READ" have some sort of tragic ending? Addictions, cancer, death, disease, infidelity, abortion, rehabs, etc. etc. etc. When did these topics become fodder to read about MUCH LESS SPEND MONEY ON? It's negative and leaves you feeling bad. Who wants to feel bad? As soon as I got to the part where I read (insert bad news here so as not to spoil it for those who insist on reading it) I stopped reading and have no intention of finishing. I'm giving it to the library. Sorry, don't waste your time.

Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream

Average customer rating:

Ok quick read but it's more tabloid than it is journalism
Fantasictlickious Book
friday night lights
heartbeat of America..
A Town, a Team, and a Dream

Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream
H. G. Bissinger
Manufacturer: Perseus Books Group
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 030681529X

Amazon.com

Secular religions are fascinating in the devotion and zealousness they breed, and in Texas, high school football has its own rabid hold over the faithful. H.G. Bissinger, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, enters into the spirit of one of its most fervent shrines: Odessa, a city in decline in the desert of West Texas, where the Permian High School Panthers have managed to compile the winningest record in state annals. Indeed, as this breathtaking examination of the town, the team, its coaches, and its young players chronicles, the team, for better and for worse, is the town; the communal health and self-image of the latter is directly linked to the on-field success of the former. The 1988 season, the one Friday Night Lights recounts, was not one of the Panthers' best. The game's effect on the community--and the players--was explosive. Written with great style and passion, Friday Night Lights offers an American snapshot in deep focus; the picture is not always pretty, but the image is hard to forget.

Book Description

The classic, best-selling story of life in the football-driven town of Odessa, Texas, with a new afterword that looks at the players and the town ten years later.

Return once again to the timeless account of the Permian Panthers of Odessa--the winningest high-school football team in Texas history. Odessa is not known to be a town big on dreams, but the Panthers help keep the hopes and dreams of this small, dusty town going. Socially and racially divided, its fragile economy follows the treacherous boom-bust path of the oil business. In bad times, the unemployment rate barrels out of control; in good times, its murder rate skyrockets. But every Friday night from September to December, when the Permian High School Panthers play football, this West Texas town becomes a place where dreams can come true. With frankness and compassion, H.G. Bissinger chronicles a season in the life of Odessa and shows how single-minded devotion to the team shapes the community and inspires--and sometimes shatters--the teenagers who wear the Panthers' uniforms.

Customer Reviews:

Ok quick read but it's more tabloid than it is journalism.......2007-06-22

Ok book nothing outstanding. The writing I'd give about a 3. Pretty much college sophomore level. Negatively biased against almost everything generally considered good. A real hatchet job on just about everyone. The author bashes teachers, schools, colleges, parents, parenting, fans, churches, the school board, the coaches, he even spends a chapter bashing Bush #1 and the Republicans. He throws in some gratuitous scatalogical jokes about Bush. He goes out of his way to paint everyone in as poor a moral light as possible. In one case he beats up on a character but to obtain contrast later needs to paint that character in a good light so that he can paint someone else in a poor light.

I read the whole book in a few days at the beach. It's just an average book - not so bad that you put it down but nothing special. I can see the appeal especially to liberal boomer white America. It's the other white American that's bad in this book. You know the one that's not you or me. I figure the author must have won the Pulitzer by sullying some other sacred cow because honestly his writing just isn't that good. The metaphors he uses were unoriginal and were strangely forced in several cases. Read it if you got nothing better to do but I would think you should find better books on the subject of high school football.

Fantasictlickious Book.......2007-06-06

Drew Oliver
Friday Night Lights
H.G. Bissinger
Da Capo Press
©2003
416 Pages

"You saying I can't play football, all I know how to do is play football!" One of the famous quotes from Boobie Miles when he finds out that he can't be the star halfback he wanted. Back in Texas the Permian Panthers was in for a good football season, maybe even take state. With the star running back Boobie hurt, can they still pull it together? The answer to that and all the others is in the text of H.G. Bissinger's book Friday Night Lights. Friday Night Lights is a story about a football team playing their way to the state championship. My favorite part of the book would have to be the last game at state where they were getting completely pounded on but at the very end the Panthers were making an amazing come back. I think this is my favorite part because it is just so glorious and suspenseful and I just know exactly what that feels like. It seems that one big message just keeps coming up. It seems that the book is trying to tell you that you should never give up. To never let anyone hold you back, never let them stop you in believe what you strongly believe, just always try, just never give up. Friday Night Lights was pretty much an all around good book. Every part was exciting and really made you not want to atop reading. The only part that was kind of bad, but more of just a bummer, was the ending but only because I didn't wand it to end that way. But I guess it had more of meaning ending that way. I think all of you out there that like a good sports book that you should definitely go and pick Friday Night Lights up.

friday night lights.......2007-06-04

i thought that this book was just ok. it was just a meteocre book for me. yes, it is a good representation of big town fame and spotlight in a small town. it just did not hit the spot for me thats it.

heartbeat of America.........2007-05-30

a fabulous book about the Permian Panthers of Odessa, TX and the MOJO magic that permeates thoughout the city. H.G. Bissinger has found the heartbeat of America in high school football as he writes in fascinating detail the story of the 1988 Permian Panthers. It could be any high school across American as the tradition, passion and politics of local high school football reign over a city that would seemingly have no identity without it's high scool football team. A wonderful book.

A Town, a Team, and a Dream.......2007-05-25

If you are from Odessa the only thing you know is football. This book Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger is a best seller and one of the best books I have ever read. If you like football or just want to read a good book this is the one.
The book is about a West Texas football team and a town has "two things football and oil, and there ain't no more oil." and the only thing that saves the town is Permian Panthers. The town has very high expectations for the 1988 team, and most will be watching because their stadium holds 20,000. The school has 5 state championships.
This book shows the quest for the state championship, and one of the biggest reasons why is Booby Miles the team's All-American fullback. Booby job is to run the ball and he is very good at it. Don Billingsley is the team's running back and his hardest task is living up to his father's expectations. Brain Chavez's is the top student and the top linebacker.
The season is turned around when Booby Miles injury his foot and it seems the season is a loss. The coaches and the players have to turn it around and even if they do all roads lead through Carter High the number one team in the state. Do they have it in them to get what they wanted since they were kid, a championship?

The Modern Jewish Mom's Guide to Shabbat: Connect and Celebrate--Bring Your Family Together with the Friday Night Meal

Average customer rating:

Funny, Practical and Informative
The modern jewish mom's guide to shabbat
Loved this book!!!
Such Inspiration!
A real how-to

The Modern Jewish Mom's Guide to Shabbat: Connect and Celebrate--Bring Your Family Together with the Friday Night Meal
Meredith L. Jacobs
Manufacturer: Harper Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0061120650
Release Date: 2007-02-20

Book Description

Today, getting everything done in a twenty-four-hour period seems impossible. After working, shuttling the kids to soccer practice, attending PTA meetings, taking the dog to the vet, and organizing a charity event, who has time to bake challah? In The Modern Jewish Mom's Guide to Shabbat, Meredith Jacobs, the ultimate modern mom, shows readers how Shabbat is one of the best ways to bring your family closer in spite of a hectic schedule.

In this must-have guide filled with helpful tips, recipes, prayers, and discussion questions, Jacobs brings Shabbat to her readers with a refreshing and modern twist. Whether you were born and raised Jewish, are in an interfaith marriage, a recent convert, or simply want to bring more tradition to your family and into your home, The Modern Jewish Mom's Guide to Shabbat is perfect for you. Comprehensive, useful, and written in a warm, engaging, and conversational tone—this inspirational hands-on guide will help keep this age-old ritual alive.

Customer Reviews:

Funny, Practical and Informative.......2007-05-16

This is a wonderful book for both those exploring Shabbat as a new experience or for those wanting to expand their practice. This is not the usual "How To" book. The author shares her practice, how her friends celebrate and other possibilities. There are no judgements.

You will find the blessings, Torah portions along with questions for discussion as well as craft projects and recipes. Funny and thoughtful; both a good guide and a good read!

The modern jewish mom's guide to shabbat.......2007-03-24

This book was well written and easy to read.It provided many suggestions
for keeping not only a religious tradition but family connecting for a meal together. In these fast paced times when two people work ,jobs and activity schedules keep us apart. This book helps alot.

Loved this book!!!.......2007-03-10

I got this book yesterday in the mail from amazon and I love it! I felt like Meredith Jacobs was writing about my own life. As a modern Jewish mom of 2 (1 in preschool at the JCC & the other starting in September), I started having Shabbat about a year ago. I am still working up to my actually cooking the Shabbat meal (noone ate when I tried), but now it has become a tradition for my parents, brother and his family to come over for a Shabbat. I can't wait to try to incorporate some of the great ideas from this book. I'm planning to start tonight.

Such Inspiration!.......2007-03-08

i just started and finished reading this book and wanted to tell everyone what i thought.....i LOVED it....it was funny without being naughty and totally informative and inspiring. it is well written without being stuffy and "Hebrew schooly"....points come across by imparting wisdom, not preaching or sounding holier than thou....i especially liked the anecdotes about Meredith's kids and how other people find meaning in Shabbat.

A real how-to.......2007-03-07

I am the sort of person who gets intimidated easily when faced with something I believe everyone else knows a lot about and I don't know anything. It wasn't until I had children that I started to think about the responsiblity of creating a weekly Shabbat in my house. We'd invite guests, go over to someone's house, or sometimes, hurriedly light candles and cut the challah while moving on to another event. Back then, it would have been nice to have this book handy.

Jacobs' book makes you think about slowing down and making time to really create a meaningful Shabbat. She gives you all the how-tos, without sounding pretentious or judgemental....she simply tells you how she morphed her routine in a way that makes you feel like you can too.

One of the most important parts of the book is the parsha section, with a quick overview of the Torah portion for the week and questions to ask at the dinner table. There are recipes as well, with a whole section about making your own challah and how baking it will enhance your meal.

But best of all is her tone. It is familiar, like you are talking with a new, best friend, in a way that makes you feel she has put her arms around you and said, "You can do it. I'll help."

A fun read, very imformative, and well worth buying. It's in a place of honor next to our table, within easy reach for our Friday night discussions.

Friday Night Chicas: Sexy Stories from La Noche

Average customer rating:

Time Well Spent
Absolutely AMAZING
4 snaps! LOL!
From one of the Authors!
Wonderful novellas!

Friday Night Chicas: Sexy Stories from La Noche
Mary Castillo , Berta Platas , Caridad Pineiro , and Sofia Quintero
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0312335040
Release Date: 2005-03-10

Book Description

Whether they're flirting en espanol, gossiping over mojitos, or dancing with their latest papi chulos, these characters prove that there is nothing quite like a night out with your chicas. Set in New York City, Miami's South Beach, downtown Chicago, and L.A., these four flirty novellas explore dating, marriage, friendship, and sex, through the eyes of four different Latina women. Mary Castillo's Friday Night in L.A.: Isela isn't looking for a one night stand; she's desperate for one last shot at saving her career. Her ticket is Hollywood's director du jour Tyler Banks but one major mistake could cost her everything.Caridad Pineiro's Friday Night in South Beach: It's Tori's thirtieth birthday and all she wants is a nice quiet night with her family and friends. However, Tori's friends have other plans and during an overnight casino cruise, Tori finds herself taking the gamble of her life!Berta Platas's Friday Night in Chicago: The once shy Cali has decided to attend her high school reunion. She slips into her slinkiest Donna Karan and puts on her highest Manolos. After all, she's out to seek revenge, Latina-style. . . Sofia Quintero's Friday Night in New York City: Gladys's friends throw her a bachelorette party at one of NYC's raunchiest male strip joints. They expected a party, but they didn't expect the not-so-blushing bride to disappear with one of the strippers!

Customer Reviews:

Time Well Spent.......2006-03-21

I usually don't have a lot of spare time, so what little spare time I do have is spent wisely. Sad to say but, if a book does not catch my interest within the first 40 or 50 pages....I usually don't ever finish it. When I read this book it had me from cover to cover. It was funny, witty, and down to earth. In most of the stories there were parts that I could relate to. I think that made it all that more humerous. I would probably read this book again in the future. When I finished it I gave it to my bestfriend to read. Needless to say she loved it to.

Absolutely AMAZING.......2006-03-08

This collection of short stories was absolutely amazing. Those who may be interested in purchasing this book need to understand that this is a collection of short storied and NOT a novel!!!

I was introduced to some amazing Latina Authors and now I am hooked. Thanks ladies. I loved it...

4 snaps! LOL!.......2006-03-07

I had to give this book four snaps! I loved it! I was first introduced to this book after reading and falling in love with Hot Tamara by the talented Mary Castillo. One of the writers of Friday night chicas. I did my research on the title as I always do before I purchase any book. I found out that they were 4 stories & 4 writers. More bang for my buck. LOL! I read the excerpt and liked was I saw. I went out and got it, read it and love it! I recommend this book to any one who would like to escape the monotony of the real world and add some spicy latin flava to their life.

From one of the Authors!.......2006-02-14

4 Stars from Romantic Times Magazine: "A delicious recipe of flavorful characters and humorous dialogue mixed with comical action makes Friday Night Chicas worth reading ... Tori, Isela, Cali, and Gladys prove that life is all about taking risks. Each story is unique, well-structured, and these Latina women exemplify poise, success and intelligent, a knockout combination."

TEMPO New York Post: "Discover how four super-Latinas encounter the dilemmas associated with dating, marriage, friendship and premarital sex as each tells her version of living la vida loca. Readers will have no problem enjoying these vicarious stories written by four writers . . . Could it be because these chicas take risks or possibly because they remind you of someone you know?

DAILY NEBRASKAN: "This (HEARTS ARE WILD). . . has a twist at the end and . . . discusses the difficulty of being taken seriously as a Latina in the business world. Piñeiro's narrative is quirky and funny and keeps the reader's interest throughout. . . Each novella includes intelligent humor and plot twists that guarantee to please."

LATINA Magazine: "In this Sex and the City-meets-chica lit collection, the authors offer you a seat at the coffee shop table for a glimpse into the lives of know-it-all Latinas."

Wonderful novellas!.......2006-02-14

This book is a collection of wonderful Latina chick lit novellas that will appeal to all women looking for a fun read. I especially enjoyed Caridad Pineiro's HEARTS ARE WILD and Mary Castillo's MY FAVORITE MISTAKE, but the other two stories were also quite good. I hope the authors bring back their characters in full length books at some point.

Friday Night and Beyond: The Shabbat Experience Step-by-Step

Average customer rating:

Just what I needed to start keeping Shabbat...
Absolutely Wonderful Book
Shabbat is within YOUR reach...
Excellent resource for almost anyone
A good review of the basics

Friday Night and Beyond: The Shabbat Experience Step-by-Step
Lori Palatnik
Manufacturer: Jason Aronson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1568219997

Book Description

Friday Night and Beyond is a practical guide to Jewish Sabbath observance. Lori Palatnik walks us through the celebration with an easy-to-follow how-to approach, allowing us to experience a traditional Shabbat. Common questions and concerns are explored by the author, who has also included personal reflections by other individuals on each aspect of the observance.

Customer Reviews:

Just what I needed to start keeping Shabbat..........2006-03-18

Lori's book is just what the Spritual Doctor ordered to help me on my journey towards keeping the Sabbath. I have experienced the beauty of Shabbat in other peoples home but with the help of this book I can begin celebrating Shabbat in my own home.

Absolutely Wonderful Book.......2002-02-07

My only regret about this book is that we didn't purchase it sooner. My wife and I are on the path of becoming more observant. We bought and read several Shabbos books before we found this one. The other books were o.k., but none came close to combining inspiration and instruction in such a pragmatic manner as Lori Palatnik is able to do. I strongly recommend this wonderful book to anyone wanting to learn and embrace the how's and why's of a traditional Jewish Shabbat.

Shabbat is within YOUR reach..........2001-01-09

This is the book for those of us for whom BEING Jewish isn't enough. This book is a wonderful introduction to DOING Jewish... the rituals that have kept Judaism going through the centuries.

If you worry that keeping Shabbat is beyond you, just dig into this book, written just for you by a woman who is much-loved here in her former hometown of Toronto (and much-missed now that she's moved down to Florida).

Excellent resource for almost anyone.......2000-02-09

This book provides exactly what the title advertises: a step-by-step guide through the Shabbat experience, from Friday night through the end of the day on Saturday. Whether you already keep Shabbat, or you are someone seeking to learn more about Jewish religious observance, this book will make Shabbat a more meaningful and spirtual experience.

Ever wondered what beginning Shabbat dinner with Shalom Aleichem is all about? Kiddush? Grace after meals? What about that washing of the hands before Hamotzi? Or, maybe you are curious about WHAT to do, not just why? This book answers all of these questions and more.

Indeed, for each ritual or step in the Shabbat experience, the book provides the what, how, and why. The author even includes the full text of prayers (in English, Hebrew, and transliteration) for both before and after the meals. Also included in each section of the book are first person antecdotes describing various individuals' personal stories behind their endeavors to observe particular rituals.

I highly recommend this book, especially for those who want to-the-point explanations of specific Shabbat rituals, including for those interested in learning what to do, and how to do it.

I now use the book to refresh myself on particular rituals so that I can share their meanings with Shabbat guests, making both mine and their Shabbat experiences more meaningful.

As an aside, the book would make a great gift for that friend or family member who keeps talking about wanting to learn about or "do more" on Shabbat but who feels overwhelmed by the prospect of having to catch-up years of not learning about Judaism. It certainly helped me in that regard.

A good review of the basics.......1999-10-09

This book illustrates the basics of jewish tradition in a clear, concise and non-threatening fashion. Very refreshing

Average customer rating:

good reading
friday night at honeybee's
Friday Night at Honeybee's Nostalgia and Education
Excellent, Page-turner.
Life Is All About Choices

Friday Night at Honeybee's
Andrea Smith
Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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The Warmest December

ASIN: 0385336985
Release Date: 2004-02-03

Book Description

Everyone who's anyone in the Harlem music scene has heard of Honeybee McColor and the famous Friday night gathers that fill her house to bursting. In the early 1960s, nowhere but "The Big House" attracts so many renowned jazz and blues musicians—and no one but Miss Honeybee attracts talented lost souls like Forestine Bent and Viola Bembrey.

The two singers come from separate worlds: one the Brooklyn projects, the other the Baptist, rural South. One has a God-given voice and the ambition to be a star, the other a more subtle gift and a handful of hazy fantasies. But both learn the destructive consequences of following their hearts. They find sanctuary together under Honeybee's tender guidance, struggling to find the balancing point where music doesn't overpower love.

Including a passel of characters both wildly raunchy and remarkably dignified, Andrea Smith has woven an unforgettable tale overflowing with energy, heart, and humanity.

Customer Reviews:

good reading.......2007-01-21

i read this book after reading "the sisterhood of the blackberry corner" I am a member of the "no name yet book club" this was our choice for Dec. 06. we all agreed that this was a very good book. Mrs. Smith has an uncanny method of writing that puts you right there on the pages with the characters. we enjoyed the way the character's shortcomings ultimately defined their triumphs. great book,skip the library, you will want to own this one.

friday night at honeybee's.......2006-07-05

This was a great book.
You really learn to love the characters and care about what happens to them.
I read this in two days.
Hope there is a sequel.

Friday Night at Honeybee's Nostalgia and Education.......2006-06-24

Throughout the reading of this book I was reminded of my upbringing. I knew and know those places, people, their thinking, their expressions, their dialects each so wonderfully infused herein. Only the proper nouns were changed.

My parents and older relatives are from S.C.. I heard and hear their stories and expressions; I was born and raised in New Jersey. I was too young for the rent parties but heard [and still hear about them]; I was old enough to and so attended the "Pay mama to get in socials".

I snuck into and later strutted or slide into the juke joints and socialized with the musicians and the people. I knew and know people with each of the personalities, situations, habits and characteristics of each character that this author so knowing, sensitively and wonderfully described.

If you are growing up or grew up around "down home" folk and were raised or are now growing up in a city then you will find yourself as I did laughing uncontrollably, smiling, and or wiping away tears in different moments of your reading. In some places because of this author's wonderful storytelling I felt as if I were a fly on the wall in the various scenes while in others I felt as she was "peeping in my window" or "stepping on my toes".

This story will stay on my mind for sometime. I also read [during the same week] her other book "The Sisterhood of Blackberry Corner". This one {Friday Nights at Honeybee's)tore at my mind, my memories; the other tore at my heart. Read them! You will enjoy.

Excellent, Page-turner........2003-11-02

If you like African American fiction about Harlem and/or the Harlem Renaissance, you will love this book. It covers the adventures of two females running from their problems, but perservering. It was interesting from beginning to end and a page-turner.

Life Is All About Choices.......2003-09-11

Andrea Smith transports the reader into the lives of the women & men of the early 1960's. As most of us know, this was a time of change in our country. Not just with civil unrest, but also women liberation and new & wonderful music styles. Ms. Smith weaves a little of this history into the story of two women
trying to find peace.

First, we have Viola. Viola does not truly live life as much as doing what is expected. Viola attempts to venture out and learns a valuable lesson. However, the choice she makes as a result of her experiences have far-reaching consequences that significantly change her life. The reader has to decide if it was
for the better.

Next, we are allowed the pleasure of making the acquaintance of Forestine. Forestine has the voice of an angel which does not exactly match her physical appearance. Forestine has to deal with an overbearing, bitter mother and a beautiful older sister.
Nevertheless, through the love of her father & music,Forestine finds a means of "escape" from the day to day challenges of walking the earth as Forestine Bent.

Viola and Forestine meet up at Honeybee's. Honeybee is the voice of wisdom and love at a time when Viola & Forestine are at their lowest or at a time of change, depends on how you look at it.

I enjoyed reading this book. But, I believe that Ms. Smith could have allowed us to see more into the characters' thoughts. There were also a few supporting characters that held a lot of untapped

potential. Ms. Smith could definitely write a sequel to Friday Nights. I believe the characters still have a lot to teach us.

Leanna Bailey
R.E.A.L. Reviewers

Average customer rating:

Friday Night with the Pope
The Bridge to Understanding ...
A touching tale with magnificent illustrations
beautiful story of conciliation between two great religions

Friday Night with the Pope
Jacques Shore
Manufacturer: Gefen Publishing House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Purim Goodies

ASIN: 9652293709
Release Date: 2006-11-01

Product Description

Friday Night with the Pope is based on the author's personal experience with the late Pope John Paul II when he visited the Holy Father at his Vatican residence in June 2003. The author chose to share the story through the eyes of a young boy because he felt that he was like a child in the presence of the late Pontiff.

Customer Reviews:

Friday Night with the Pope.......2007-03-14

This is a lovely picture book for bridging understanding between Jews and Catholics.
It is based on a true story about Pope John Paul II, as told through the eyes of a young boy named Jacob. Pope John Paul II invites Jacob and his mother to Shabbat dinner at the Vatican. On the way, Jacob's mother shares stories about the Pope, who was her childhood friend back in Poland. She proudly tells Jacob about the Pope's good will toward the Jewish community. When they arrive at the Vatican, Jacob and his mother are kindly welcomed by Pope John Paul II. . The Pope appears well versed in the celebration of Shabbat and the friends enjoy a lovely meal, including prayers over wine and bread. Based on the true story of the author and his family, this book is heart warming and touching. The Pope's words and actions clearly inspire young Jacob. The soft, pastel colored illustrations add to the gentle appeal of the story.
For ages 6-10.
Reviewed by Barbara Bietz

The Bridge to Understanding ..........2007-02-15

This book is a wonderful introduction for children ages 7 - 12 to learn about two different religious traditions. It shows the means to build understanding and tolerance. The book would be of great benefit to parents, one of whom is of the Catholic faith and the other of Jewish faith. The book clearly illustrates how the leader of the Catholic Church welcomes a Jewish boy and his mother to his residence for a Friday night Sabbath meal. Parents could use the book as a basis to explain how the foundations of both religions are based on the same ancient teachings ...

The book would also be beneficial in any teaching situation where core religious beliefs and values are taught, for example, at any Protestant Sunday School. The foundation of Christianity is based on ancient Jewish teaching and traditions. Experiencing a Sabbath meal and learning about the prayers associated with the event is an ideal way to connect to the roots of Christianity ... It is a way to develop respect for these traditions.

The author as an adult and his mother Lena actually had such a meal with Pope John Paul II. His mother grew up in Poland and was a Holocaust survivor. She knew the Pope when he was growing up. The book clearly makes a strong statement about the Pope's friendship with people of different religious backgrounds and that faith in G-d supercedes whatever differences exist in belief systems. Erika Borsos (pepper flower)

A touching tale with magnificent illustrations.......2006-12-05

The message of this childrens book, though adults will equally enjoy it, of religious tolerance and understanding is brought over with such sensitivity and as such I found it very touching. The book's magnificant illustrations reflect the sensitivity of the story and their detail add to the pleasure of reading this book. As an educator and story teller I recommend this book for children and parents alike.

beautiful story of conciliation between two great religions.......2006-11-28

This is a great children's book. It is a beautiful story of conciliation between two great religions. It is a story about hope. And in today's scary world, it is a story about peace. This is something well worth reading to children.

Also -- the illustrations are marvelous. They are so intricate and wonderful -- I can stare at them for hours. Even after the 4th or 5th time looking at one of the pictures, you'll see something new in the drawings.

Average customer rating:

This is my favorite children's book!
one of our favorites
On the rise!
A reader in Toccoa, GA

Friday Night at Hodges' Cafe
Tim Egan
Manufacturer: Houghton Mifflin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Humorous | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Picture Books | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 039568076X

Book Description

Hodges the elephant runs a cafe with the help of a crazy duck. One night, despite the sign outside that reads No Tigers, Please, three menacing tigers walk in - and they're hungry!

Customer Reviews:

This is my favorite children's book!.......2003-10-03

I just picked it up today to read it to my twins and while they're entertained by me reading it, I totally love reading it to them! This is a beautifully illustrated book with a cute story ~~ we all should accept one another even if we are different.

Hodges' duck is annoying but one Friday night, when three Tigers came in, the duck counter them with his own challenge after every insult that the Tigers give out. Then a food fight melee breaks out ~~ and that is when the Tigers realized that hey, food doesn't have to be pigs or elephants or even ducks! Hodges' cooking and his duck save the day.

It is a very entertaining book and very cute. It is going to be a definite bedtime story for these guys from now on!

10-2-03

one of our favorites.......2002-01-11

My 5-year-old son and I have enjoyed this book very much over the years. It's a great story and it's easy to do fun voices with the duck and the tigers.

On the rise!.......2001-08-04

Tim Egan is without a doubt on his way to the top!! I've purchased all his books for my niece and will continue to do so..

Thank you Tim for bringing so much pleasure into children's lifes. The word is out that your next book will hit huge.....

A reader in Toccoa, GA.......2000-03-16

A very offbeat and funny little story. My girls (ages 5 & 3) thought it was a hoot - as did their parents. Defintely a book we'll be reading again and again.

Al Di Meola, John McLaughlin and Paco DeLucia - Friday Night in San Francisco (Piano-Guitar Series)

Average customer rating:

This is probably well-transcripted but...
Good musical transcription
The great acoustic guitar transcriptions

Al Di Meola, John McLaughlin and Paco DeLucia - Friday Night in San Francisco (Piano-Guitar Series)
Al Di Meola , John McLaughlin , and Paco Delucia
Manufacturer: Hal Leonard Corporation
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Songbooks | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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Friday Night in San Francisco
Power, Passion & Beauty: The Story of the Legendary Mahavishnu Orchestra

ASIN: 0793512468

Product Description

Artist Transcriptions 21st Century Publications This famous trio of acoustic guitarists is captured live in this matching folio to the Grammy Award-winning album from a live concert in San Francisco. The book contains full transcriptions of every tune including: Short Tales of the Black Forest Mediterranean Sundance/Rio Ancho Fantasia Suite and more. Fantasia Suite (Al Di Meola) Frevo Rasgado Guardian Angel Mediterranean Sundance/Rio Ancho Short Tales Black Forest

Customer Reviews:

This is probably well-transcripted but..........2004-10-22

What's the point? No one is good enough to play the ridiculous songs in this book!

Good musical transcription.......2000-07-28

If you are looking for a good musical transcription of Friday night in San Francisco concert played by Al di Meola, Paco de Lucia and John Mclaughlin this is the book for you. In general I think that it is a great book, specially for those who are really into that music. Although most of the guitarist might be disapointed because there are not any guitar tablatures written, so it is sometimes really hard to read the notes, specialy those 32'nd ones. The transcription is very thorough, has a three seperate parts for every player and also contains chord progressions (rythem accompinent). In the book you will find everything you need to play all the five songs as long you are able to.

The great acoustic guitar transcriptions.......2000-03-29

This book gives you a very pricise transcription of the famous "Friday Night in San Francisco" live show. It's incredible for almost any guitarist to have this book by hand, because, in my opinion, it is the most excellent acoustic session I've ever heard. One practical drawback is that there's no tabulature, but I think that it doesn't make any sense for a true professional. It's really great.

Average customer rating:

Friday Night Live Songbook
Craig Taubman
Manufacturer: Sweet Louise Productions
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 1886926034

Book Description

Friday Night Live is a service held at Sinai Temple in Los Angeles, CA designed for young people, ages 25-40, many of whom were estranged from the synagogue and Jewish life. Now the monthly service is an amazing "happening" that draws 2,000 people! Craig's wonderful music that resulted is recorded with all the energy, excitement, and artistry that mark all of his recording projects.

This is the accompanying songbook to the Friday Night Live CD, the best-selling Jewish music album in the country.

Books:

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